James William Olson

James (Jim) William Olson, age 70, died unexpectedly after a brief heart-related illness on February 20, 2022, at Holy Cross Hospital. He was born in Johnson City, NY on August 18, 1951, to William and Gwendolyn (Betty) Olson. He is survived by his son, Evan Olson (Kellie) of Broomfield, Colorado, his loving partner, Louise Janus, and his brother, David Olson, of Florida. He and his wife Robin separated in 2005. 

He lived in Johnson City until age 11, when his family moved to Berwyn Heights, Maryland. He went to High Point High School and graduated from the University of Maryland, majoring in English Literature with a minor in Philosophy.

He was a professional jazz pianist, playing at various venues in the D.C. metropolitan area for over 40 years. He released his CD "Evidence of Things Not Seen" in 2019 with the assistance of the Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council. He also taught privately.  Baseball was a favorite pastime of his and he played in the Ponce De Leon baseball league for many years, including the past fall season.  He will be remembered for his wide-ranging intellect, creativity, tenderness, and love of animals.

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A memorial service will be held in March.

Donations may be made to an animal shelter in your area.

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Condolences may be expressed on the above Tribute Wall

You are listening to "Wayfaring Stranger" by Jim Olson himself. 

To hear more you may visit https://youtu.be/r48tA25s6vI?t=15

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James William Olson, please visit our floral store.